Politiken apologise over cartoon - How much should free speech cost?

The right to free speech is upheld in modern western society as a fundamental human right. This right also applies to the press. Free speech is a great power. But with this power comes a great responsibility; to not abuse this right.

The boundaries between the right to freedom of press and downright piss-taking can sometimes be blurred. This complex conundrum is perfectly exemplified by the risqué cartoons first published by the Danish newspaper (Jyllands-Posten) back in 2005. Depicting Mohammed with a bomb in his turban, the cartoons led to outrage among the Muslim community.

The cartoon was reprinted by several newspapers but the paper Politiken is the only one to have issued an apology following the groups’ demand. The paper admitted that they should not have published what was clearly insulting. While the demand for an apology and its subsequent arrival may seem like a challenge to the freedom of the press, it really was the right thing to do.

The press needs to be careful about what it prints. Material which directly singles out a particular ethnic group or religion and mocks something that is sacred to them is just plain wrong.

No media should expect the target of their taunting to take the abuse lying down. Yes the media have the duty to report goings on but this does not necessarily mean open season. The papers should consider people’s feelings, especially considering the storm of outrage that erupted in the wake of the publication.

Widespread violence across many countries, both in the Middle East and Europe is a good enough reason not to tick any major ethnic groups off, if you ask me. Add this to the fact that an assassination attempt was made on the life of the artist who drew said cartoons.

The media should stick to the delivering of facts, and while they may convey information in whatever tone or slant they desire, it is important that they avoid insulting anyone directly. This is its duty, its responsibility, and its job.